Sanitation Week: Recognising Amref Uganda’s WASH Impact

Wednesday, 8 May, 2024

In March 2024, Uganda’s Ministry of Health spearheaded a dynamic Sanitation Week under the theme “Sanitation and Hygiene for All: A Key to Sustainable Healthy Living,” rallying communities to prioritise cleanliness and hygiene. Amidst the fervor, Amref Uganda stood out for our exemplary dedication to improving Water, Sanitation, and Hygiene (WASH) services across the nation.

Amref WASH project Manager, Teo Namata receives the appreciation certificate on Amref’s behalf from MOH represented by the Permanent Secretary for Health, Dr. Diana Atwiine (C), and the event’s guest of honor, Uganda’s Prime Minister Hon. Robinah Nabanjja.

Throughout the week-long campaign, we championed the cause of proper WASH practices: from advocating for high sanitation standards to promoting frequent hand-washing with clean water and soap, the focus remained on empowering individuals with the knowledge and tools to uphold hygiene. Particularly notable were efforts to address Menstrual Hygiene Management practices and proper waste disposal methods, crucial aspects often overlooked in sanitation discourse.

The culmination of the week’s activities saw us receiving prestigious accolades from the Ministry of Health represented by the Permanent Secretary, Dr. Diana Atwiine and the event’s guest of honour, prime minister, Hon. Robinah Nabanjja. A certificate of appreciation was awarded in recognition of Amref’s significant contributions to improving WASH service delivery in Uganda.

Amidst our commendable achievements, we remain steadfast in our mission to enhance WASH service delivery and contribute to the realisation of Universal Health Coverage in Uganda. Currently, we are actively implementing four transformative projects under the WASH program: Piwa Maleng Phase II, WASH for SRHR in Amuru, Solar for Inclusive WASH services, and WASH SDG through which we have reached 103,678 beneficiaries, 69% of whom got access to safely managed sanitation facilities which is in line with the global sanitation recommendations.

Declaration of Open Free Defecation

The programme has been able to declare 32 villages in Agago open defecation free thus helping to lower the risk of contracting sanitation and water related illnesses for over 7,680 people living in these villages.

Through collaborative endeavours and steadfast dedication, we are paving the way for a healthier, more sustainable future for all Ugandans.